Trauma of war echoes down the generations

Its effects travel far and wide, says psychologist Zahava Solomon, who studies war and captivity trauma in Israel – "the stress laboratory of the world"

By Michael Bond

The Wall of Names at the armored corps memorial site in Latrun, Israel

(Image: Jonathan Bloom)

What made you choose a career in trauma research?My mother was in Auschwitz. That has shaped my career, my choice of field. I was very close to my mother. She was one of the very few survivors who talked about her experiences.

How do you characterise a traumatic event?Any event that puts someone in danger of death or serious injury. Most people exposed to traumatic events cope in an effective way, even though they may feel upset by it. …

To continue reading this premium article, subscribe for unlimited access.